The bill would create the team within the Office of the Governor and empower them to unify state resources and work towards submitting a project plan by July 2011, with gas flowing by the end of 2015.

“We have studied and talked about an in-state gasline long enough. Now’s the time to get the right group in place to bring a viable development plan forward,” Speaker Chenault said. “HB 369 brings the relevant state agencies or entities and assets together, unifying their efforts and giving them clear directives and timelines for delivering their plan. The Railbelt cannot continue to wait and hope for a solution. HB 369 is the first step in creating economic opportunities and a consistent energy supply.”

The team will cover all aspects of the line’s development, from planning and design to financing and gas delivery. HB 369 also charges the team with selecting the most economically sound route to deliver the gas to Alaskans, and share previously-completed work to expedite project planning and development.

“It is my hope that the Development Team can focus the State’s efforts and leverage the best ideas and data to get a gasline built,” Speaker Chenault said. “This is an opportunity for Alaska to move forward, and put the weight of our many assets behind obtaining a stable gas supply for Alaskan businesses and families.”

HB 369 now heads to the Alaska State Senate for consideration.
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